Penn State's Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, offered online through World Campus, provides students with a strong foundation in software engineering using a combination of classroom study, software development experience, and design projects. The undergraduate program blends engineering principles, computing skills, project leadership, and software construction to supply students with a comprehensive understanding of the field and to prepare graduates for the workforce or future study.

The program offers students the opportunity to develop strong problem-solving and communication skills, along with the development of teamwork skills. Students will also be exposed to state-of-the-art technologies for developing mobile applications, web applications, and software for embedded systems.

The program is offered in partnership with Penn State Behrend's School of Engineering, and combines a highly focused curriculum with a flexible, convenient, online format, allowing you to maintain your professional commitments as you acquire a valued credential. The Software Engineering program is Accredited by the Engineering Commission of ABET.

When you earn your degree online through Penn State World Campus, you can expect a fully accredited degree program taught by highly respected Penn State faculty, a staff of professionals ready to support your needs, a collaborative learning environment with quality interaction between faculty and classmates, and an opportunity to join a proud Penn State community.

Your Software Engineering Curriculum

Courses in the B.S. in Software Engineering program cover a wide array of software engineering topics including discrete mathematics, probability and statistics, and relevant topics in computer sciences and supporting disciplines for a comprehensive coverage of modern software and techniques. As a student, you can gain knowledge in areas such as computer programming, object-oriented methodology, software design, software validation and verification, software security, and computer networks.

The courses are also designed to help you develop key abilities needed to effectively contribute, and have an impact on, business practices and team dynamics within an organization.

During your senior year, a capstone course series — which includes an industry-sponsored design project — allows you to collaborate with fellow students to design, plan, manage, and implement a software system and provide you with experience working with real industries.

What You Can Do with a Penn State Education in Software Engineering?

As a graduate of this program, you should be well prepared to apply your knowledge, techniques, and skills to implement high-quality software and provide innovative solutions in industry and government. Possible software engineering jobs may include: